On the anniversary of the Crimean annexation by the Russian Federation, U.S. President Joe Biden stated that “the United States does not and will never recognize Russia’s purported annexation of the peninsula”. His statement was published by the White House press-service.
According to Biden, seven years ago Russia illegally invaded Crimea violating international law, the norms by which modern countries engage one another, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighbour Ukraine. Therefore, the U.S. promised to stand with Ukraine and its allies and partners.
“On this somber anniversary, we reaffirm a simple truth: Crimea is Ukraine. The United States does not and will never recognize Russia’s purported annexation of the peninsula, and we will stand with Ukraine against Russia’s aggressive acts. We will continue to work to hold Russia accountable for its abuses and aggression in Ukraine,” Biden stated.
The American President noted that America will continue to honour the courage and hope of the Revolution of Dignity, in which the Ukrainian people faced down sniper fire and enforcers in riot gear on the Maidan and demanded a new beginning for their country.
“The United States still believes in the promise of Ukraine and we support all those working towards a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future for their country,” the U.S. President concluded the statement.
According to “Apostrophe”, earlier the U.S. Secretary of state Antony Blinken called on Russia to immediately end its occupation of Crimea, release all Ukrainian political prisoners it unjustly holds, and return full control of the peninsula to Ukraine.